Languages

Language learning and linguistic diversity are fundamental to the EU's Lifelong Learning Programme under the Comenius, Erasmus, Grundtvig and Leonardo Programmes.

The ‘transversal’ part of the programme funds other actions to promote language learning, with actions focused on the teaching and learning needs of several educational sectors.

A labour force with practical language and intercultural skills is crucial for economic growth and better jobs, enabling European businesses to compete in the global market place. Multilingualism can also contribute to personal development, reinforce social cohesion and promote intercultural dialogue, creating opportunities to discover other values, beliefs and behaviour.

Activities

Activities should raise awareness of the importance of linguistic skills, boost access to language learning resources and develop teaching materials through:

• Projects to develop new language learning materials, including online courses, instruments for language testing, the promotion of language awareness and access to language learning resources.

• Networks to promote languages policies and disseminate project results and good practices.

• Other initiatives including promotion, marketing, publicity and information campaigns, as well as conferences, studies and the development of statistical indicators in the field of language learning and linguistic diversity

Priorities for actions are set annually and the initiatives are open to any organisation or institution working in those fields. Any language (worldwide) is eligible for funding under these multilateral projects and networks, including European regional or minority languages.